Sheriff: Ira man engaged in years of sexual behaviors with young girls

A 29-year-old Ira man is facing sexual assault charges after he allegedly engaged in sexual behaviors with preteen girls since 2014.

The Cayuga County Sheriff's Office said William H. Lewis, of East Mechanic Street, is facing three felony charges following an investigation with the assistance of Cayuga County Child Protective Services. Lewis was arrested March 23 and charged with predatory sexual assault against a child and predatory sexual assault, both class A felonies. He was also charged with first-degree sexual abuse, a class D felony.

Cato-Meridian Central School District Superintendent Noel Patterson said that Lewis has been employed as a mechanic's helper in the school district for a little more than a year.